At OffKai, Panel 3 Virtual Fashion Design https://www.offkaiexpo.com/event/virtual-fashion-design/

• Presented by MikanVT (MikanTheCapybara)
  • Been streaming for 5 years, currently fulltime
• Felt detached from their design, and got into character design to feel more connected. They wanted a new look!
• Looked like their old outfit could be bought on Amazon; didn’t want their drip to look so affordable.
• Wanted an outfit that resembled a capybara.
• Process:
  • Theme: Try to narrow it down to three themes/word
  • Idea: Decide on outfit elements. Think of it like if you get invited to a wedding, or going swimming, or what season it might be. Consider the context for the outfit.
  • Color
• Make something that makes you happy! Be anything you want!
• Color:
  • Neutral colors like white, black, and gray look good with a lot of other colors
  • Silver or gold? Maybe both. Silver tends to be the cool color, gold tends to be warm. These colors are usually used for accessories.
  • Cool vs warm
  • Pick colors you like
  • 3 colors is a good amount
• Details
  • You can use asymmetry or symmetry, as long as you balance things. Small asymmetrical details can add a lot!
  • Add accessories like hairclips, belts, symbols, bags, plushies, etc
  • If it feels like something is missing, try adding something!
• Example:
  • Lily, first design, it’s why Mikan does character design
    • Themes: Lily of the Valley (it is a flower), Fox, Maid
    • Floral and bell shaped
    • Neutral colors plus greens
    • Gold bells and eyes
    • socks are asymmetrical, but shoes and dress are symmetrical
  • OffKai’s Sam-Joe
    • Colors: Purple and red, neutral colors, a bit of a neutral/cool tone on accessories like white and silver
    • Hair does not need to match the overall clothing. Think of it like how you might change your clothes in real life regardless of what hair you have.
    • Asymmetrical eyes, hapi coat, socks
    • Symmetrical shoes, shirt, and shorts.
    • Themes: Racing, Neon, Summer
  • Made an outfit for Sam-Joe
    • Bright and sporty fashion
    • Race-queen style outfit
    • Did neutral colors first
    • Not every single piece needs to be the same color. A lot of people wear black pants and black shoes
    • If it looks too busy, use the same neutral colors
• Conclusion
  • It is okay to be inspired, but try to find a way to stand out
  • Pick a few ideas you like
  • After having an idea, you can start shaping the character or outfit.
  • If an idea doesn’t fit, save it for other situations like alternate universes, other outfits, or seasonal events.
  • Even if you cannot draw, these ideas will help an artist know more about what you are looking for.